MEMBERS of the Clarence Catchment Alliance are feeling optimistic after their recent meetings with state politicians.
The delegation had initial discussions with Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully and Minister for Water Rose Jackson, as well as the advisors for the Minister for Environment and Heritage and the Minister for Natural Resources.
Meetings were also held with members of the Greens, the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party and the National Party.
All were asked to ban mineral exploration and mining in the Clarence catchment; to cease the renewal and transfer of existing Exploration Licences and Mining Leases in the region; and to revoke all existing exploration licences and mining leases.
More than 500 people attended the Alliance’s recent roadshow events about the potential dangers of mining antimony and other heavy metals in catchment areas, with their feedback added to eight years’ worth of evidence showing the risks are substantial.
Concerns include that mining heightens the risk of water contamination because the region has high rainfall and frequent major flooding events.
The Clarence-Coffs Regional drinking water catchment services approximately 120,000 people and state and federally-listed threatened species, such as the Eastern Freshwater Cod and Koala.
Local First Nations people have strong cultural and community ties to the Clarence River, its major tributaries and surrounding lands, and there are food, fishing, farming, and tourism industries contributing to employment and a thriving economy.
CCA Coordinator Shae Fleming said, “The first sight that greeted us upon arrival at Parliament House the next day was ‘Ngurra Jagun’ (home country), a powerful work by Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung artist, Kim Healey.”
The work celebrates the deep connection of First Nations people with land, waters, and sky, highlighting the Southern Cross as a guiding compass.
“To walk into Parliament carrying the strength and support of our whole community was deeply moving, and taking our concerns to Ministers with this wave of energy at our backs feels powerful, emotional, and unstoppable.”
Ms Fleming said the group was extremely grateful to Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin and Member for Clarence Richie Williamson for hosting them, to the parliamentarians who received the delegation’s concerns, and to every person who has shared their voice, story, and expertise.
“We now await the Ministers’ responses, confident that the Clarence community remains unwavering in its resolve to protect our rivers, water, culture, economy, and future.”
By Andrew VIVIAN
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